Acclaimed referee Mickey Vann is coming to Teesside for a talk about his career.

The Leeds-based official is making a guest appearance at a free-entry sportsman’s evening for die-hard boxing fans at Coatham Memorial Hall in Redcar on September 5.

Former pro fighter Vann - known for his twinkle-toed footwork and trademark “no naughties with the heads” pre-fight instruction - is a straight-talker and will come equipped with a wealth of stories and anecdotes from almost 40 years of officiating.

The 71-year-old has refereed in 39 countries and been in charge of dozens of British, European, Commonwealth and world title fights.

They include the all-British Lennox Lewis against Frank Bruno heavyweight showdown at Cardiff Arms Park and light-welterweight classic between Shea Neary and Micky Ward.

Vann also refereed the WBU light-welterweight title fight between Ricky Hatton and Stephen Smith which ended amid farcical scenes when Smith’s father and trainer Darkie climbed into the ring and shoved him.

London-born Vann no longer referees in Britain due to the domestic Board’s policy of refs being no older than 65, but he is still officiating abroad and is the Malta Boxing Commission’s chief referee.

Admission for the Redcar night is free and the evening will include an interview with Vann about his career, a question and answer segment with fans along and music and a raffle.

All funds raised with go to Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice.

Other guests on the night will include former professional boxers Nigel Wright and Esham Pickering.